Toyota Vista V20, 2 generation, restyling 08.1988 - 07.1990

The second generation of the Vista sedan received the designation V20. The car was offered in four-door bodies: the usual Toyota Vista sedan and the Vista Hardtop model. In the latter, despite the designation “hardtop”, the body still has lateral central pillars to give structural rigidity, but the doors are frameless, making the car look more impressive. The appearance of this model has become a kind of fashion pursuit, you just have to remember the Mark II and Carina ED models. In the new generation, more attention is paid to aerodynamic performance, so the Toyota Vista Hardtop V20 differs from its predecessor in rounded body shapes. The dimensions of the model have changed slightly (mainly in length), the same size of the wheelbase is preserved. The engine range includes modernized predecessor engines and new power units with a capacity of 85-140 hp. In addition to front-wheel drive modifications, all-wheel drive appeared in the lineup. The new Vista Hardtop is characterized by smoother shapes not only in the exterior but also in the interior - so that the angular dashboard is a thing of the past, and the new one looks quite elegant even by modern standards. The dimensions of the internal space in comparison with the previous model remained almost the same. But the overall level of comfort has improved, the design of the seats has been finalized in order to make the landing even more convenient. The new generation of Vista Hardtop offered a variety of configurations, and their list differed from the sedan with frame doors with higher equipment - the initial configuration was VL Extra, and the top model was the GT model, which was not in the line of the “ordinary” sedan. The top version of the GT (Gran Turismo) is distinguished by special aluminum wheels, an advanced air conditioning system, the most powerful gasoline engine, electronic instrument cluster, TEMS suspension and other features. In 1988, the model was restyled; in 1989, versions of Etoile V and VX Limited were offered for Vista Hardtop, which included a number of special options.

 For Toyota Vista Hardtop V20 (1986-1990) gasoline engines were offered. The initial engine was a 1.8-liter SOHC 85 hp 1S-i unit, which was equipped with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. A more powerful 2.0-liter 3S-FE unit produced 120 “forces”. This option has become the most common and popular, in addition, with this engine all-wheel drive versions (Full Time 4WD) were also offered, coupled with the "mechanics" (since 1987) or the "automatic" (since 1988). Models of the sports class GT were equipped with the most powerful unit - they became a forced 2.0-liter 3S-GE (Twin Cam), which had a margin of 140 “forces”.

 The suspension of Toyota Vista (V20) is completely independent, rack-mount type, simple and reliable, while providing high driving performance and a level of comfort. Options GT features a stiff sports suspension, a strut between the front struts, electronically controlled suspension TEMS. The car is equipped with a brake system with ventilated discs on the front wheels, rear brakes, depending on the configuration, are drum or disc. Steering - type "gear rack" with power steering. The dimensions of the body of the sedan Vista (V20): 4500 x 1690 x 1385 mm (L x W x H). The wheelbase is 2600 mm, and the minimum turning radius is 5.3 m. The luggage compartment is quite roomy, it can be increased by folding the seatbacks (60:40).

 The safety of Toyota Vista in the second generation (V20) has become higher. For example, the car received three-point seat belts of the rear seats as a standard, height adjustment of the front belts, and special child seats could be installed. In some models, the 4-ESC dynamic stabilization system (option) first appeared. In the GT configuration, an active TEMS suspension (Toyota Electronically Modulated Suspension) was installed, which served to increase stability, controllability of the car, as well as traffic safety.

 Despite the venerable age of cars of this generation, one cannot but note the truly legendary reliability of Toyota Vista. The high engine life, the safety factor and corrosion resistance inherent in the design allowed the representatives of this Toyota series of the 80s to survive many competitors of other brands. Of course, today, of those machines that are still in service, it is more difficult to find a copy in good condition, but the prices are very affordable, and, for example, Vista GT can be an excellent object for recovery.